KARACHI: The Customs Appellate Tribunals in Karachi and Lahore are facing severe operational challenges due to the absence of appointed Member-Technical officers from the Customs department. Three seats are already vacant and remaining two members from Customs have already completed their tenure and since October 20, Karachi and Lahore benches are not functional.
This lack of appointments has led to a significant backlog of pending cases, causing frustration among stakeholders.
The authorities’ indifference towards the appellate tribunals has turned these institutions into breeding grounds for corruption. Lawyers, acting as front men for tribunal members, are reportedly writing judgments and receiving bribes, further burdening the higher courts with appeals.
In an effort to address this issue, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has recommended two highly reputed and competent officers from Karachi for the position of Member-Technical to the Ministry of Justice and Law. However, an official noted that honest officers are rarely appointed to these tribunals, exacerbating the problem.
The tribunals are also suffering from a lack of budgetary support. Members are not provided with fuel for their vehicles or other necessary incentives, unlike their counterparts in the high courts. This lack of resources hampers their ability to function effectively.
There is an urgent need for the authorities to address these issues by providing the necessary facilities and perks to tribunal members, akin to those given to high court judges. Ensuring the appointment of honest and competent officers is crucial for restoring the integrity and functionality of the Customs Appellate Tribunals.